4 DIY Super Healing Winter Lotion Recipes You Will Love!

One of the things everyone hates about winter is how dry your skin can get. Between the lower moisture levels, the blasting winds, the freezing cold and the dry, heated air from furnaces, your skin can feel like a piece of parchment paper by the middle of December!

The best way to avoid this problem is by using creams and lotions to add moisture back into your skin. You might be wary of using most commercial body lotions and creams because of all the toxic chemicals they contain, and you would be wise to feel this way.

You aren’t stuck with the choice of dry skin or toxic creams, you can make your own super nourishing body lotions at home! One of the best things about making your own lotion is that you can make them using your favorite essential oils. Essential oils are super healing and smell like a little slice of heaven every time you use them.

If possible, use fresh ingredients and fresh herbs when they are called for. If this isn’t possible, dried herbs will work. If you don’t already have some herb infused oils on hand, you might want to think about making some so that you will always have them on hand to whip up a batch of lotion anytime you like.

If you haven’t made herb infused oils, it’s easier than you might think. Depending on the type of oil you intend to use, for example, olive oil, simply warm the olive oil in a pan. Fill the container of your choice (always use glass or ceramic) about ¾ of the way full of the dried or fresh herbs you want to use, and then pour the warm oil over the herbs until they are completely covered. Tighten the lid and give the bottle a good shake or two, then put it in a warm place out of direct sunlight. Give the bottle a shake once or twice each day. You can leave the herbs in the oil for as little as 2 weeks or as long as 6 weeks. The longer you leave the herbs in, the stronger the oil becomes. When you are done, simply strain out the herbs.

One important thing to remember when you are making your lotion is that cleanliness is extremely important. You want your lotion to be free of bacteria or mold. The last thing you want is to be rubbing mold into your dry, cracked skin! So always use clean containers and wash your hands before, during, and after you make your lotion.

You might have some of these ingredients on hand but if you can’t find them at your local natural or health food store, try a farmer’s market. If all else fails, you can always purchase them online. By the way, these lotions make terrific holiday gifts!

In a small sauce pan, add the kokum butter, herb infused olive oil, green tea, glycerin (or honey), wax, stearic acid, and citric acid. Heat over low flame until these ingredients are well combined and completely melted. Be sure to stir frequently and don’t allow this to boil. Remove the pan from the stove and using either an immersion blender or a wire whisk, stir gently until the mixture becomes creamy and thick. Add in your essential oils and the rosemary extract. Stir well, and then pour into your desired containers.

This lotion should keep for about 6 months if kept out of direct sunlight. Glass containers with tight fitting lids work best. If you decide to make a double batch for later use or to use as gifts, you can store this in the refrigerator, which will make it last even longer. If the lotion should separate in hot weather, simply shake it well before using.